Born in Pyongyang in 1927. She graduated from Jinnampo Girls’ High School in South Pyongan Province. She began her theater career in the early 1940s. Recognized for her acting skills on stage, she was able to make her film debut in director Lee Kang-cheon's 1956 film The Idiot Adada. Since then, she has appeared in over 80 films, including Simcheongjeon, Seaside Village, and Forest Fire. New play performances such as Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1959), Flock of Seagulls (1963), and Exchange (1966) by Shinhyup Theater Company, and musical performances such as Porgy and Bess (1962) by Drama Center.